Four Lithuanian ministers sign defense, security industry development pact

  • 2023-05-25
  • BNS/TBT Staff

VILNIUS - Four Lithuanian ministers on Thursday signed a roadmap for the development of the country's defense and security industry in 2023-2027. 

The document, which shapes the needs of the industry and innovation, was signed by Economy and Innovation Minister Ausrine Armonaite, National Defense Minister Arvydas Anusauskas, Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite and Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis.

The initiative is expected to help use the potential of Lithuania's defense and security industry, which has become particularly important since Russia sparked the war in Ukraine. 

The roadmap set out the directions, objectives and priorities for the development of this industry, the main development instruments and institutional areas of activity. Increased funding will be sought for defense and dual-use product development, research, experimental development and innovation.

Earlier this week, the Lithuanian parliament allowed domestic and foreign defense industry companies to set up their business in Lithuania's Free Economic Zones from 2024, lifting the ban, which has been in place since 1995, on activities in FEZs that are related to national security and defense, as well as the production, possession or sale of weapons, ammunition, explosives.